In a frank and revealing interview, one of England's most talented, yet hated stars, Ashley Cole, gives a fascinating insight into what it's like to be a national anti-hero.

Ashely Cole is certainly not without his detractors, not just in London but up and down the country. The 28-year-old has been severely criticised in recent times following a well-publicised falling out with his former club Arsenal, as well as having been arrested outside a night club in March.

Cole admits that it was a low point for him.

"Getting arrested last March was my lowest point," he told the News of The World.

"It was like a domino effect, with one thing after another. When I was in the police cell for five hours I could see the headlines and it was like I was the devil man,” he added.

Indeed, by virtue of just being Ashley Cole, the former Gunners ace inevitably grabs strong media attention.

"People expect us to be nice all the time - and we try - but there are always some who try to turn us over. I go to restaurants with the missus, but there is always the paparazzi outside. It's hard to go out and enjoy myself, and sometimes I can't be normal,” he revealed.

Cole also admitted that he holds a special place in his heart for former club Arsenal although the recent attacks on him by Gooners everywhere has left him shaken.

"I'm not stupid. Some Arsenal fans will never like me and some will never appreciate me or respect me. What they say about our wives, our mums our families is nasty. We have to put up with that. It affects me.”

As he prepares to do battle with new United signing Antonia Valencia over the course of what is sure to be a close-run Premier League title race, Cole reveals, somewhat surprisingly that he misses the often titanic tussles with current FIFA World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo.

"I miss playing against Cristiano Ronaldo, I really do," he said with joy.

“Manchester United don't seem the same without him - he's the best player in the world. I used to love our battles. If I'm concentrating, on my day I can do well against anyone, but he was something else!” he added.